Pragmatic Organization Dynamic Display Introductory Workshop

Course Outline

Children who have complex communication needs (little or no speech), often benefit from augmentative and alternative communication to support interaction. This may include children who have physical disabilities, multiple disabilities, sensory processing challenges, autism, and a range of other developmental challenges.
This two-day course will demonstrate the use of a Pragmatic Organization Dynamic Display (PODD) approach developed by Gayle Porter (Melbourne, Australia). PODD is a language organization system used in communication books and AAC devices. The PODD system focuses on providing language to support genuine communication for a variety of functions throughout the day. Generic templates are available for a range of language levels and access methods.
Come learn strategies for selecting and customizing PODD generic templates and creating multi-modal language learning environments. Learn strategies for teaching and using PODD with children and their communication partners. Videos and case examples will be shared. Participants will have an opportunity for hands-on practice with PODD Communication books.

Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to learn to:

• Describe the challenges faced by professionals creating communication systems in terms of vocabulary organization, layout, design, range of access strategies and customizing for individual requirements.,
• Identify the key desirable outcomes for AAC intervention that guided development of and strategies selected to implement the PODD system.
• Discuss the importance of receptive language input and creating a language learning environment.
• Discuss the features of a PODD communication system in terms of vocabulary organization,
• Use PODD generic template resources to produce customized communication books.
• Identify and use strategies to build fluency using the PODD language organization to communicate.
• Discuss teaching and learning strategies for implementing PODD communication systems with students and team members.

Course Instructor

Linda Burkhart is an internationally known teacher and leader in the field of simplified technology for children with severe challenges. She has developed numerous adapted switches and innovative strategies for using these devices with children. She is the author of a number of books and software titles on topics of assistive technology and augmentative communication. Linda was a classroom teacher for fifteen years. Then for eight years, she worked as an Augmentative Communication and Assistive Technology Specialist for the Center for Technology in Education – a joint project between the Johns Hopkins University and the Maryland State Department of Education. Currently, Linda works as a private consultant and technology integration specialist.

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Terms and Conditions
– Participants from SSAs will be eligible for the VCF subsidy based on certain criteria and on first-come-first serve basis, as only limited seats are given by NCSS.
– We are in the midst of applying for VCF funding for eligible participants. Outcome of the application will be known by end of July 2022
– Participants who registered before 22 July and did not receive VCF funding will have to pay full course fee.
– Registration will be confirmed only upon receiving invoice or full payment.
– In the event of no show up for the course, course fee will be charged with no refund.